Scotch College

Old Scotch Lodge opens up

Since Graeme Weber's installation in November last year as Master, the Old Scotch Masonic year has been "flying". Warren Peacock ('72) advanced to a Fellowcraft at our February meeting, and in March the Lodge held an Open Night where Freemasonry, its objectives and activities were explained to about 50 interested Old Boys, their families and friends. This presentation is part of a general "opening up" and created considerable interest, providing real insight into Freemasonry and its core values : To practise universal charity, provide opportunities for self development, build friendships, foster moral standards, and seek excellence in all pursuits.

The May meeting was our annual Old Boys Night when many Old Boys from other Lodges were especially welcomed, and we paid tribute to our Old School with a talk by Keith Weymouth ('44) on Scotch Heritage, enjoyed a great haggis ceremony, a memorable Toast to the School by OSCA President Rob Wilson with an entertaining Response by Neil Roberts, followed by the hearty singing of the School songs. A few days later Old Scotch was well and worthily represented at the annual Combined Schools Lodges meeting, hosted by the Caulfield Grammarians Lodge.

Also in May Lodge Members and friends assisted the Salvos with their Red Shield door-knock collection in the Hawthorn area, collecting a substantial amount for this very worthy cause. Socially we have also been busy with a visit to Walhalla over the March long-weekend, enjoying the hospitality of the historic Walhalla Lodge, plus walks and visits to places of local historic interest, and a BBQ at the Thompson River Dam. Later in March Members and families enjoyed a picnic day at the Yarra Glen races hosted by Michael Smith.

Early in May David Morris and Stuart McArthur ('89) organised a car "rally" for Members and families with some interesting teasers along the way, finishing with a BBQ at the Healesville Badgers Weir Reserve. The Tingates were the winning "teasers team". Later in May a party attended and enjoyed a local theatre group production of the musical Gigi.

The Lodge has recently marked the sad passing to the Grand Lodge above of two of our stalwarts in Lloyd Phillips ('35) and Brian Horman ('46). With many fond memories. The Lodge meets on the first Thursday of each month at the Camberwell Masonic Centre.

All Freemasons are welcome. More information is available on www.oscanet.com.au.

Bill Tingate